Border Crossing Authority Says Smuggling Attempts Have Dropped Sharply

Border Crossings Authority chief Omar al-Waeli said smuggling attempts at border crossings have fallen significantly after tighter inspections and stronger field-level control. He said the measures are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at facilitating trade flows while protecting the national economy. Al-Waeli said the authority has automated procedures, deployed camera and monitoring systems, increased inspections and maintained coordination with relevant security and oversight bodies. He added that the single-window system has been activated to reduce the risk of irregularities and corruption. He said these steps have helped boost revenues, reduce waste and smuggling rates, and speed up the completion of procedures. The changes are also intended to improve efficiency at border facilities. Al-Waeli also said coordination continues between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government on managing border crossings, sharing information and aligning customs and inspection procedures.